Vaughan's top team set to tour

Michael Vaughan looks set to lead a strong side to Zimbabwe this winter after confirmation that England will play five one-day internationals in Harare and Bulawayo.

He confirmed that no player had so far pulled out but, while the firstchoice squad look set to travel in late November, the two-week tour will be anything but normal.

The players' union, the Professional Cricketers' Association, still has reservations and said in a statement: "The players will not be involved in publicity activity, including official functions or the meeting of state dignitaries."

The England Cricket Board insist the tour must go ahead because cancellation could lead to a worldwide suspension.

Safety issues or an ongoing inquiry into alleged racism within Zimbabwe cricket could yet see the tour called off.